Are you now getting the itch to go travelling again? I know I am. In fact, as I type this I’m reading up on the United States of America and the travel itch is becoming overwhelming.
I love the States, and if you’ve never been before, I very strongly recommend that you pack your cases, book your flights or cruises, and head over to the States as soon as it is safe to do so.
Compared to here, the USA is enormous. What I really love about America is that each state is like its own different country, with its own customs and traditions, its own cuisine, its own dialect, its own climate, and its own unique landmarks and beauty spots.
Because America is so vast, deciding on where to visit can be tricky, but fortunately for you lucky readers today, I’m here to make your decision that little bit easier.
If you’re thinking of visiting the States, here are se7en of the most beautiful places in the USA.
South Dakota Badlands
First up I’ve got something a little more unusual than my typical offerings.
When we think of natural beauty spots, we generally think of stunning landmarks, lush countryside, vibrant colours, amazing coastlines, and things of that nature.
Beauty, as they say, is in the eye of the beholder and if you appreciate slightly more outlandish beauty spots, the South Dakota Badlands are perfect.
As well as having an awesomely cool name, the National Park is also, well, beautiful.
Here you’ll find expansive grasslands, prairies and rock formations, along with canyons, trees, and dramatic weather patterns that match the name.
One visit here and you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported back in time to the Wild West.
North Carolina Outer Banks
Secondly, I’ve got North Carolina’s Outer Banks.
If you’re heading to the Eastern Seaboard and find yourself in the stunning North Carolina, then a trip to the Outer Banks is simply a must.
Here you will find barrier islands bordering South Carolina, along with gorgeous scenery, tranquil surroundings, and friendly and welcoming locals.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
As you might expect, there are plenty of National Parks on my list today, and for good reason.
America is home to some stunning National Parks, and it has to be said that Yellowstone is one of the best, and that’s not purely my opinion, either.
Yellowstone National Park is the oldest park in the USA, and as a result of its diverse landscapes, the many animal species residing here, and the stunning seasonal colours you’ll find here, it is regularly voted as one of the most beautiful places to visit in the United States of America.
With lush green trees and meadows, along with geysers, streams, lakes, and waterfalls, it is the perfect setting for a relaxing day out in the countryside.
Alaska
Notice how I’ve included an entire state here, as opposed to just a place or a landmark?
Well, that’s because Alaska is so gorgeous I can’t find just one spot to describe. To truly appreciate Alaska, you need to see as much of the state as possible.
Home to dominating mountains, glacial streams and lakes, glaciers, evergreens, remote grasslands, stunning coastlines, and an incredible array of wildlife, Alaska is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream destination.
If you do visit in the winter, be sure to really wrap up warm because Alaska is one of the coldest places on the planet.
Hamilton Pool, Texas
If you like the sound of Alaska but aren’t too thrilled about the sub-zero temperatures, then don’t worry, you’ll like my next offering for you today.
Up next, allow me to present to you Hamilton Pool, Austin, Texas.
People often assume that because Texas is so warm, it is all dry and arid, but that is not the case.
Texas is also home to some amazing countryside and some truly stunning swimming holes such as Hamilton Pool.
To access the pool here, you’ll hike your way through around a quarter of a mile’s worth of forest until you get to the pool.
The pool itself was created when an underground river’s dome collapsed and cascaded down into the water below.
After working up a sweat hiking in the hot Texas sun, the cool and refreshing water makes for an incredibly welcome change. Just don’t forget your swimwear.
Crater Lake National Park, Oregon
I’ve always been fascinated by Oregon, especially since the days of the hugely popular ‘The Oregon Trail’ computer games, which many of you will probably be too young to remember.
Oregon is a stunning state packed full of forests, quaint charming towns, lakes, rolling meadows, and beautiful National Parks.
Crater Lake is Oregon’s crown jewel and coming in at a whopping 53km, it’s certainly large enough to keep you entertained for hours on end.
Crater Lake National Park was formed thanks to an explosion which took place more than 7,000 years ago. The lake now sits in the hollow of the imposing Mount Mazama and looks like something from a Tolkien epic.
In the summer you can even scuba dive as the crater itself is not too far off of 2,000 feet in depth.
The Chicago Skyline
Chicago, known as the Windy City, also happens to be one of the most beautiful cities in the whole of the USA.
The skyline, especially at dusk, just as the sun is setting and the buildings are silhouetted against the darkening sky and sunset looks absolutely stunning.
Chicago itself is a wonderful city that’s home to plenty of shops, galleries, museums, theatres, restaurants, cafes, bars, and clubs, so you certainly won’t be struggling to find things to do when you visit.
Acadia National Park
Last, but certainly not least, I present to you Acadia National Park.
Now, if you’re familiar with the legendary artist that was Bob Ross, you’ll be forgiven for mistaking Acadia National Park for one of his many gorgeous paintings he would create on his ‘Joy of Painting’ TV show.
The park offers stunning views of the sea, alpine forests, colourful trees, shrubs, and bushes, and even a Fjord located on the East Coast.
It also happens to be the oldest National Park located East of the Mississippi River and on average, around two million people visit this stunning part of the country every single year.
If you’re located in and around Maine, be sure to check it out.
Did you notice I included 8 great places to visit instead of se7en? I couldn’t help myself so…you’re welcome I guess? Haha.
If you enjoyed this post, then this list of Se7en of the best National Parks in the USA should follow nicely.
Until next time, stay safe, stay curious and don’t stop wandering!
